(Newser)
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The Arctic mosses that thrive in some of the world's most inhospitable locations are even tougher than scientists thought. Researchers found that the hardy mosses on Canada's Ellesmere Island managed to survive being crushed under a glacier for centuries, NPR reports. They were amazed to find green sprigs of new growth amid a tangle of moss that had been covered by ice since around 1500 and only exposed recently when the glacier retreated.

"The material actually looked quite green when we examined it underneath the microscope. And in examining it in more detail, there was actually growth coming from the material," says the lead researcher, whose study hails the "unrecognized resilience" of the mosses. The study suggests that the hardy plants may play a key role in regenerating ecosystems after glaciers have retreated, Science News notes. (Read more moss stories.)

It all goes to prove that the earth was warmer before the glacier crushed the moss. Global warming is a hoax. There are natural ups and downs of the earth's temperature, and the Left is misusing and distorting figures to promote its political agenda.

Rob

May 28, 2013 9:15 AM CDT

But the glaciers are not retreating, right? RIGHT?!?

Frontier94600

May 28, 2013 6:26 AM CDT

Over 10 yrs. ago the Mojave Desert had the most rainfall ever recorded. The desert was in bloom with flowers everywhere! It was amazing. Seeds can last a long time all over the world.